The Rural Fire Service has issued a major alert, with 'Catastrophic' fire danger forecast for the Lower Central West Plains on Wednesday 26 November 2025, due to forecast high temperatures, low humidities and strong winds, making conditions dangerous. Bogan, Coonamble, Dubbo Regional, Forbes, Gilgandra, Lachlan, Narromine, Parkes, Warren, Warrumbungle, and Weddin LGA's communities are warned to take precautions and be on alert.This is the first time that Catastrophic fire danger has been forecast for any part of NSW since September 2023. Total Fire Bans have also been declared for 11 areas across the state.'Catastrophic' is the highest level of bush fire danger and the most dangerous conditions for a fire."Your life may depend on the decisions you make, even before there is a fire," the RFS said in a statement.Advice for people in areas of Catastrophic fire danger include:For your survival, leaving a fire risk area is your safest course of action.Stay safe by going to a safer location early in the morning or the night before. A safer area may be a large town or city, shopping centres or facilities well away from fire risk areas.Stay out of paddocks and bushland areas during the hottest parts of the day.Homes cannot withstand fires in these conditions. You may not be able to leave and help may not be available.Schools in identified high risk areas may be closed. Schools will notify affected students.Large areas of the state are also forecast to experience Extreme fire danger.Based on latest forecasts from the Bureau of Meteorology, the following fire danger ratings are expected on Wednesday.Extreme fire danger conditions are forecast for: North Western, Upper Central West Plains, Southern Slopes, Eastern Riverina, Southern Riverina, Northern Riverinan Greater Hunter, Greater Sydney, Illawarra/Shoalhaven, Central Ranges.Extreme fire danger is also likely to continue into Thursday for parts of the state.For more information on Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans, visit the RFS website.

The federal government has shelved a proposal to reduce default speed limits on roads outside built-up areas with no specific signposted speed.Federal transport minister Catherine King said on Friday 21 November that "no further work" is underway on the proposal following a meeting with her state counterparts. Facing backlash from local councils and key industries, the government will now need to find new ways to reach their targets for reining in road trauma across the nation.“Ministers noted recent feedback from consultation on open road default speed limits that has been in the National Road Safety Strategy since 2018,” a joint meeting statement said."Ministers noted the Commonwealth does not set speed limits in any jurisdiction, and that states and territories are responsible for these decisions."No further work is being undertaken on open road default speed limits."The government had proposed to reduce road deaths by cutting the default speed limits by up to 30 per cent from 100km/h to as low as 70km/h. The idea was slammed by farming and freight bodies, who said it would unnecessarily increase transport times and costs. Local councils and the Country Mayors Association also made submissions and spoke out against the proposal, citing an unnecessary increase in travel times for their local residents.More than 11,000 submissions were made against the proposal.Supporters including the Road Trauma Support Group said it would tackle speed as a big driver behind fatalities.Jamie Chaffey says better funding would make regional roads safer. [IMAGE SUPPLIED]"Regional communities, local councils, and Liberal and National MPs have told the Albanese Labor Government in no uncertain terms they do not want this plan, and common sense has finally prevailed," said Jamie Chaffey, MP for Parkes.“This was a ridiculous plan, and the Labor Government has wasted months pushing a policy that punished regional motorists instead of repairing the roads that endanger them."Under the 2021-2030 National Road Safety Strategy, the federal government aims to at least halve the number of national road fatalities by the end of the decade, then to zero by 2050.However, that number has increased every year from 1097 in 2020 to 1292 in 2024, according to Australian government data.The proposed change would largely not have affected main roads and highways since they tend to have clear speed signage. It would have applied to many of our shire's rural roads that are less busy and carry fewer vehicles on a daily basis.A government consultation paper models that reducing the speed to 70km/h could avoid 401 deaths on sealed roads and 123 on unsealed roads across Australia each year. “Cutting speed limits would have been a lazy substitute for real road investment,” Mr Chaffey said. "Road safety won’t improve until the Government invests in the roads themselves. "It’s time they got on with the task of making roads safer by fixing them and filling the potholes.”

Barwon MP Roy Butler says the NSW peak body for greyhound racing "has the wrong mission or objectives as an organisation, and that needs to change."He has called for a parliamentary inquiry into Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW), saying the organisation needs reform. Mr Butler made the call in a Private Members' Statement to the NSW parliament on 20 November and said GRNSW should be obliged to consider the sport's social and cultural role for country communities in their objections.GRNSW has pushed to close a number of rural tracks, including in Coonamble and Broken Hill, and in October released a report from Deloitte Australia which recommended cutting the number of racing courses in NSW from 26 to 12.Mr Butler argued that the report's recommendations were a foregone conclusion."The way the criteria were designed was always going to disadvantage regional and non-TAB track facilities."I believe that was intentional."The recommendations from Deloitte were predetermined by the criteria that were used." The Barwon MP is taking up the fight on behalf of both Coonamble and Broken Hill."My communities of Coonamble and Broken Hill have a strong and active group of greyhound enthusiasts."The rug was pulled from under their feet when they were told that they are being considered for closure in June 2026," Mr Butler said."Coonamble has experienced mixed messaging from Greyhound Racing NSW about its future, the annual Coonamble carnival and the works required to bring the track up to a standard that many other tracks still in use do not meet. "Greyhound racing is an important part of the fabric of the Coonamble community, and the carnival is an important drawcard that drives people and money to Coonamble."Mr Butler said that an inquiry should include a focus on GRSNW's objectives, as well as their support for regional clubs and financial decisions.He says a proportion of gambling revenue should be directed towards the continuation of greyhound racing in country communities."Any decision to close tracks needs to be put on hold pending a parliamentary inquiry into Greyhound Racing NSW and its actions."Scrutiny and accountability needs to be applied through the Parliament."He also said it should probe greyhound rehoming programs and the objectives of the Greyhound Welfare Integrity Commission (GWIC).Graham Pickering is President of Coonamble Greyhound Racing Club.Coonamble Greyhound Racing Club president Graham Pickering said he supports an inquiry. "I think the Greyhound board needs to answer to someone besides just themselves. They just do whatever they want," Mr Pickering said. "They've got to have some country racing for dogs."To put it plain and simple, for dogs that ain't good enough to race down on the provincial tracks, there's got to be some way for them to go and race or they're just going to end up in the GAP (Greyhound Adoption Program)." Mr Pickering and Mr Butler have advocated to return the Coonamble track to racing since GRNSW confirmed in mid-2024 their plans to close it. The body allowed the town's annual October Carnival to go ahead, although they confirmed in June 2025 that it would not proceed this year.GRNSW claims that dog deaths and high upgrade costs are among their reasons for the Coonamble closure, which the club disputes.When approached, a spokesperson for NSW racing minister David Harris, said that their government is considering the findings of a previous inquiry into GRNSW, initiated in July 2024, over animal welfare. Mr Butler plans to put forward his proposal to amend governing legislation “to ensure that the holistic impacts of decisions” by GRNSW are taken into account when parliament returns in the new year.“I ask every member in Parliament to support continued greyhound racing in regional New South Wales,” he said.However, Coonamble’s race may well have been run by then.The board is expected to make a final decision on the Deloitte recommendations before the end of the year, including whether to continue Coonamble as a trial track.GRNSW CEO Steven Griffin said they are aware of Mr Butler's statement to Parliament."At this stage, all GRNSW has done is to release the Deloitte report to allow for full and proper consultation with greyhound racing clubs and the broader industry," he said."GRNSW is yet to determine whether to accept the recommendations made in the report."We have received a large volume of submissions from members of Parliament, clubs, industry stakeholders and participants."We thank everyone for their submissions as they will be invaluable in assisting the Board of GRNSW to determine next steps when they meet again next month."

People determined to make a dent in the spiralling rates of domestic violence in rural communities are being drawn to Narromine this Friday 28 November.A new symposium shining light on domestic violence in small towns will be held in Narromine on Friday 28 November, off the back of increasing numbers of domestic violence incidents and the latest updates from NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR).The event is now officially sold out with over 150 people signed up to attend, signalling the level of determination to create on-the-ground change in western towns.Orana and Far West had the highest rate per 100,000 population of domestic violence-related assaults in NSW in the year to June 2025 and CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes (organisers of the day) says this needs to be urgently addressed.Domestic violence-related assaults In Orana and Far West, have occurred at more than three times the state rate per 100,000 population for at least the past two years, according to the BOCSAR’s report for the last quarter.Speakers at the Hidden No More event include: The Hon. Stephen Lawrence MLC; Dr Hannah Tonkin, NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner; Jess Hill, author, professor, and investigative journalist; Superintendent Greg Moore who is Commander, Incident & Emergency Management centre for Sydney Police; and Magistrate Aaron Tang, Dubbo Local Court. The three sessions of the day are expected to lay bare some deeper insights into the issue.Dr Tonkin to speak about moving from awareness to action and shifting the national conversation on gender-based violence.Supt Greg Moore will address 'the trap of coercive control', what we’ve learnt, and where policy must go. Professor Jess Hill will look at specific challenges, risks and building trust in regional communities, while Magistrate Aaron Tang will cover strengthening justice including courts’ response to DV, doing better in Aboriginal communities and how men can be part of the solution.CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes CEO Anne-Marie Mioche is hoping for lasting change as the outcome of the Hidden No More Symposium [Image CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes]According to CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes CEO Anne-Marie Mioche, these leading voices and the frontline workers who attend aim to pinpoint the issues behind DV in our communities, in an attempt to drive lasting change.“Levels of domestic violence continue to remain at unacceptable levels,” Ms Mioche said.“Frontline workers are seeing firsthand what NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research reporting shows. "Towns in western NSW, such as Moree and Walgett, report domestic and family violence levels over five times the state average.“Women in very remote areas experience assault-related hospitalisations at 43.1 times the rate of women in major cities (AIHW, 2022–23).“Women and children have a right to live in safety and without fear.“Domestic violence causes deep and long-lasting emotional, social and financial effects on victim-survivors, their families and wider communities.”According to Ms Mioche the Hidden No More Symposium will bring together community leaders, sector workers and advocates including Plus Communities, Bunmabunmarra, Maranguka and Western NSW Community Legal Centre, whose insights and experience are key to achieving effective and lasting change.“Domestic violence is preventable and the Hidden No More Symposium will bring the focus to the issue in regional and rural NSW, with a unified goal of improving the safety of women and children,” said Ms Mioche.Stephen Lawrence MLC is a guest speaker and hopes to not only speak but to learn. [Image NSW Parliament]Stephen Lawrence Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) said he is really looking forward to connecting with the attendees and other guest speakers.“As a former specialist domestic violence prosecutor and former criminal defence lawyer at the Aboriginal legal service I have a lot of views and perspectives on domestic violence," he said.“Since I have been in Parliament, I have been involved in a lot of the laws the government has passed in this area, which include changes to bail laws and expansion of refuge services.“As an individual parliamentarian I have always tried to draw attention to things that happen at grassroot levels for this area, and this is an issue I have lots of views on and I am really looking forward to the opportunity to speak at the forum.“I will be talking about the things the government has done but looking to learn more about what needs to be done and take that back to government.“I note there are some eminent and interesting people attending that will have really good perspectives.“I am looking forward to learning. It is such an acute area, we’ve got very high rates of domestic violence in western NSW, and this is a work in progress.“There are no quick answers. It is a social problem we need to get on top of, to manage and contain but sadly there are no quick fixes,” said Mr Lawrence.Dr Hannah Tonkin, Women’s Safety Commissioner, NSW Government, Communities and Justice says the symposium will bring together key players to address issues. [Image Department Communities and Justice]Dr Hannah Tonkin, Women’s Safety Commissioner, NSW Government, Communities and Justice will speak on shifting the national conversation on gender-based violence.‘While domestic, family and sexual violence is experienced by women throughout the state, there’s no question that those living in rural and regional NSW face additional challenges,” says Dr Tonkin.“Compared to their metropolitan counterparts, women in rural and regional areas often encounter great barriers in accessing housing and specialist support services.The Hidden No More Symposium will bring together key players from a range of sectors to discuss these challenges and identify opportunities to address them.“United action from communities, specialist services and government will help accelerate action on domestic, family and sexual violence. I’m hopeful that the symposium will lead to some positive collaboration and meaningful change,” added Dr Tonkin.“The event is already at full capacity, highlighting the collaborative and collegial commitment of regional frontline DFV service providers to drive meaningful, survivor-led change,” said CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes CEO Anne-Marie Mioche.

Reforms to Centrepay, the government-run bill-payment service used by millions of Centrelink recipients, are now officially underway, two months after consumer advocates welcomed the long-awaited changes in September.The reforms, announced by Minister Katy Gallagher and supported by the Financial Rights Legal Centre, Mob Strong Debt Help, CHOICE, Anglicare NT, Economic Justice Australia and the Consumer Action Law Centre, aim to stop Centrepay being misused by high-risk businesses and restore the service to its original purpose: a voluntary, safe way for people to pay essential bills and expenses.Advocates had warned for decades that Centrepay had become a vehicle for financial abuse, with some companies exploiting loopholes to sign vulnerable people up to never-ending deductions taken out before money even reached their bank account.Julia Davis from the Financial Rights Legal Centre said at the time that consumer groups had been calling for the removal of predatory operators for decades.“These announcements are a long time coming and have been the result of years of consistent advocacy and demonstrated harm,” she said.Under the reforms, now in force, businesses must meet much higher standards before being approved to use Centrepay.Stronger enforcement powers have also begun, allowing Services Australia to quickly remove operators who fail to follow the rules.Complaints mechanisms have been strengthened, and all new deductions must now include a target amount or end date, putting an end to unlimited, open-ended withdrawals.Bettina Cooper from Mob Strong Debt Help said the reform process involved genuine, long-term consultation with First Nations organisations and consumer advocates.“All government departments can learn from their open and collaborative approach to achieve fair outcomes,” she said.The next phase, now in transition, will see high-risk service reasons removed altogether. Funeral expenses, consumer leases, household goods and other previously allowed categories linked to financial harm will no longer be eligible.Businesses in these categories now have until 1 November 2026 to stop using Centrepay.Shelley Hartle from the Consumer Action Law Centre said the changes will finally close the loopholes that allowed “rogue businesses” to take advantage of vulnerable customers.CHOICE’s Rosie Thomas welcomed the strengthened guardrails, saying the reforms ensure Centrepay can only be used by trustworthy and properly vetted businesses.Anglicare also praised the changes, describing them as the result of years of perseverance from communities and advocates.Purchasing household goods is one category deemed a high risk to financial harm and will be removed from Centrepay access.With implementation now underway, consumers can expect protections to continue rolling out throughout 2026 as the system transitions fully to the new rules.Key changes being implemented include removal of high-risk categories, including:Funeral expenses, consumer leases, household goods, and other products linked to financial harm.Stronger enforcement tools so Services Australia can act quickly against non-compliant businesses.Mandatory conditions for deductions to prevent endless withdrawals.Higher standards for businesses before they can access Centrepay.Strengthened complaints pathways for users and advocates.What’s changing and when3 November 2025 – Reforms officially beganAll new Centrepay deductions must include an end date and/or a target amount.Stronger compliance and enforcement powers activated.Higher approval standards introduced for any new business applying to use Centrepay.4 May 2026 – Update deadline for existing deductionsAny deduction set up before 3 November 2025 must be updated to include a target amount or end date.1 November 2026 – Final reform deadlineAll high-risk service reasons will be removed completely.All non-eligible businesses must exit Centrepay.Only essential, safe, properly vetted services will remain eligible.

NSW premier Chris Minns says his government will push to make it easier to hold 10-13-year-olds criminally responsible after they tabled changes to youth crime laws in Parliament on Tuesday 18 November. The reform would require courts to weigh what a child has done, and the circumstances around an offence, when considering if they know what they did was seriously morally wrong. Under the legal concept of doli incapax, children within the age range have been presumed not to have the capacity to be criminally responsible.It is something that country mayors have been pushing to have reviewed, but it seems they are not the only ones seeking change. Sydney MP Michael Daley introduced the proposal and said it would allow prosecutors to challenge the presumption without - or despite - evidence of the child's intellectual and moral development. "[The reform] confirms that whether a child knew their conduct was seriously wrong is a question of fact, as opposed to a question of law," Mr Daley said in a speech to Parliament. "It does not require the child to know that the acts are criminal or illegal. "The bare facts necessary to satisfy the elements of the offence will not, on their own, be sufficient to rebut the presumption. "For example, proof that a 10‑year‑old child hit a household member would not be, of itself, enough to prove that the child knew it was seriously wrong to do so, no matter how objectively wrong that act is."READ: Premier comes to the party on youth crime prevention Courts would also need to consider the environment the child was raised in. The reforms follow an independent review of doli incapax earlier this year, which was led by ex-NSW Supreme Court member Geoffrey Bellew and former NSW Police deputy commissioner Jeffrey Loy. The review noted that prosecutors were unable to rebut the presumption in a vast majority of cases. It recommended that the principle be set in NSW legislation and unchanged from its current common law definition. Common law refers to precedents established in courts to resolve legal disputes. "The expert reviewers – a former NSW Police commissioner and Supreme Court judge with over 80 years’ combined legal systems experience – found that using criminal courts and punishment to control children is unproductive and fails to provide a meaningful, long-term solution for the child and the community," Aboriginal Legal Service CEO Karly Warner said."Locking up children not only compounds existing trauma for that child, it also increases the likelihood that they will reoffend – ultimately increasing future crime."The majority of 10-year-olds that NSW Police decide to charge and drag to court are Aboriginal children. "Any change intended to increase conviction rates for children represents another departure from the government’s Closing the Gap commitments." The review also supports boosting access to diversionary programs for 10 to 13-year-olds.NSW Greens justice spokesperson Sue Higginson also welcomed legislating doli incapax, although she said the age of criminal responsibility should be lifted to 14. At the moment, children under 10 cannot be charged in NSW."Anything less leaves NSW trapped in a cycle of political panic and child harm,” she said."Children aged 10 to 13 do not have the cognitive capacity to understand criminal intent and early contact with the criminal legal system dramatically increases the likelihood of future offending. "The review the Government commissioned confirmed this, yet the Government continues to ignore it."What we needed was a commitment to keep children out of prisons, invest in community-led supports and finally stop criminalising the youngest and most vulnerable."

The new Bureau of Meteorology website re-make has blown out to large numbers and it's in the headlines again today, Sunday 23 November.Coonabarabran pastoralist and NSW Farmers Sustainability and Climate Change Chair Angus Atkinson says changes to a new look Bureau of Meteorology website are still causing confusion.''It’s a bit different if you're using a lap top or your phone but I will check it further to see what all the fuss is about,'' he said. Mr Atkinson suggests users be patient with the changes.Amid the stormy backlash, a new CEO has stepped into the Bureau of Meteorology hot seat. The new Bureau of Meteorology website was launched on Wednesday 22 October and was intended to improve the long-term security, stability and resilience of critical Bureau services.The updated website had previously made headline news forcing the Federal Minister responsible Environment Minister Murray Watt to call on the BOM to get it right. “It's clear that the new BOM website is not meeting many users’ expectations, with a significant range of feedback provided to the Bureau in recent days,” Watt said. “In the meeting, I made clear my expectations that the BOM needed to consider this feedback and, where appropriate, adjust the website’s settings as soon as possible. “This includes urgent consideration of improvements to the website’s functionality and usability. “The acting CEO confirmed the BOM is considering this feedback and what adjustments can be made, while preserving the website’s reliability.”The Acting CEO was Dr Peter Stone, who took the seat temporarily when long-serving Dr Andrew Johnson stepped down in September.A long time in the making, the website renewal went live on his watch, a few tumultuous weeks before the new leader took over.Stone says forecasts, warnings and public safety information have not been compromised by the roll-out of the new website."I acknowledge the concerns raised by the community and recognise the significance of the change."We didn't make the change lightly and we appreciate that it will take time for some to adjust."I sincerely apologise for the challenges the change has caused."It’s clear we need to do more to help people through the change, both by making adjustments to the website and by helping users to understand its new features,” Dr Stone said.The Bureau website is a much–loved site that hadn’t changed in over a decade. It receives millions of daily visitors and people rely on the website and the BOM Weather app to help plan ahead.The Bureau works closely with emergency management agencies at all levels in preparation for the severe weather season and provides resources via the news and media section on the website and social media channels.“It’s clear that the new BOM website is not meeting many users’ expectations, with a significant range of feedback provided to the Bureau in recent days,” Minister Watt said.“I made clear my expectations that the BOM needed to consider this feedback and, where appropriate, adjust the website’s settings as soon as possible.“This includes urgent consideration of improvements to the website’s functionality and usability.“The acting CEO confirmed the BOM is considering this feedback and what adjustments can be made, while preserving the website’s reliability.”Mr Atkinson said sometimes change is hard to handle for some. Nationals Leader David Littleproud says farmers have found it hard to negotiate, complaining that they cannot find essential information. ''Some tell me it's hard to find river heights and predicted rain events, it needs an overhaul.'' He is also concerned about the cost blow out to $96 million.''The seriousness of this cannot be understated."This isn’t just about a clunky website, the changes actually put lives and safety at risk,” Mr Littleproud said.“The new platform did not allow people to enter GPS coordinates for their specific property locations, restricting searches to towns or postcodes.“Families and farmers could not access vital, localised data such as river heights and rainfall information and this missing data created panic and fear across communities,” he said.The alerts page on the new Bureau website outlines the heatwave conditions expected this week.Before he stepped aside for the new CEO Dr Stuary Minchin, Peter Stone defended the changes, while committing the organisation to do better."The safety of Australians is our primary concern. "We want to reiterate that observations, forecasts, warnings and severe weather updates continue to be readily available on our website, the app and our social media channels,” he said.“The new site has been specifically designed to enhance access to public safety information. The Bureau's forecasts and warnings are now more prominent, easily accessible and relevant to your location."The BOM radar has come under particular scrutiny. SOURCE: www.bom.gov.auThere has been significant feedback about the radar on the new website."It’s important to note that the website radar provides one view of the current weather situation."It is not intended to replicate or replace the Bureau's weather warnings which are created by our expert meteorologists and issued ahead of a severe weather event,” he said.“We are listening and welcome your feedback on the new site – it's part of delivering a reliable service that every sector of the community can trust and rely on.“We are moving quickly to act on the feedback received, and I am confident the community will start to see more improvements in the coming weeks,” he said.New content, features and upgrades will continue to be rolled out through regular releases, based on feedback.The new Bureau CEO has begun Dr Stuart Michin he has promised more transparency about the changes being made.

Member for Barwon Roy Butler is applauding the recent news from NSW Government on the activation of 13 new smart road signs aiming to make travel through western and outback NSW safer, fairer and more reliable.The solar-powered electronic signs will give drivers real-time updates on road conditions, displaying whether a route is open, closed, caution or 4WD only.Previously manually controlled the new remotely-controlled, solar-powered signs have been installed at strategic intersections across 30,000 square kilometres of country roads, covering some of the most isolated and unpredictable terrain in the state.Smart signs to help travellers, farmers and transport [Image Bourke Shite Council]Bourke Shire Council General Manager, Leonie Brown, today took the opportunity to thank Transport for NSW (TfNSW) for its installation of two (2) electronic Road Condition Information Signs, in the vicinity of North Bourke.Mrs Brown noted that one of the signs is located on the Wanaaring Road facing traffic heading out of North Bourke towards Wanaaring. "This sign will assist in providing information to road users on the status of Wanaaring Road and The Cut Line between Bourke, Wanaaring, Borrona Downs and Tibooburra” Mrs Brown said.“There is a further sign located on Mitchell Highway facing north bound traffic heading out of North Bourke towards Queensland, with this sign providing information to road users on the status of the Mitchell Highway between Bourke, Barringun and Cunnamulla."Each sign will provide real-time traffic information to road users,” Mrs Brown said. "Up until now, when either of these roads have been closed due to flooding, Council has worked with TfNSW to locate a mobile variable messaging board at an appropriate location to advise motorists of the closure. "The installation of the new electronic signs will replace the need for these mobile signs.”Mrs Brown noted that all but 9.6 kilometres of the Bourke to Wanaaring Road had now been sealed.“Whilst Council will finalise the sealing of the Wanaaring Road next year following the receipt of grant funding, the road beyond Wanaaring remains unsealed. "During periods of inclement weather, this real time signage will be very beneficial to the ever-increasing number of road users traversing the far northwest of the State,” she said. High tech road signs have long been a part of metropolitan travel and finally the bush is beginning to see equivalent technology.Member for Barwon Roy Butler says this is great news for far west and western NSW. [Image Roy Butler's Office] “This is a big win for people living, working and travelling across western NSW,” said Member for Barwon Roy Butler. “These smart signs can help take the uncertainty out of outback driving.  “The signs mean fewer dangerous trips for Transport for NSW and council road crews, and more reliable journeys for locals, farmers, freight operators and tourists. “It’s great to see the NSW Government investing in practical, on-the-ground improvements that make life safer and easier for the bush."Transport for NSW’s team built and designed the signs at their Yennora Depot in Western Sydney prior to them being transported to the outback, with each sign built in modular sections for ease of onsite assembly.It took crews weeks on the road in remote locations to install the new signs.Nine signs were previously installed on the Cobb and Silver City highways, with the 13 new signs covering some of the state's most remote areas, around Bourke, Wanaaring, Borrona Downs, Tibooburra, Packsaddle and White Cliffs.Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison. [Image NSW Parliament] “These signs will save time, reduce risk and help travellers plan safer, more reliable journeys,” said Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison. “Roads in outback NSW can be unpredictable and knowing whether a road is open or closed before you set off can save hours or even save lives. “They are providing live updates straight from the source. “Whether you live in the city or the bush, everyone deserves reliable roads. “We also want to thank the far west community, who for years have gone out of their way to manually update signs. This new technology will make their roads, and their lives, safer.” 

17-year-old Pearl Blackburn of Cobar will join over 300 people in Sydney on 4 December at the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards as she vies for the prestigious title of NSW Young Volunteer for 2025. Pearl was selected earlier this year as regional winner for the statewide volunteer award in the Orana area for her long list of volunteer works.“I am so excited to be heading to Sydney for the Awards,” said Pearl. “It’s been a busy year, and everything is coming up all at once. The Volunteer Awards is the day before we have our Cobar Christmas Parade and I want to be home for that,” laughed Pearl.According to Pearl, volunteering in small communities is what makes them tick.“In a small town there is always something to jump on board with. "I volunteer at School being on the student representative Council and a group called Batyr, a mental health awareness group, I am School Captain, so I have a few things associated with that also.“I volunteer for Cobar Show Society, helping with the Rural Woman of the Year section and for Cobar Little Athletics as well."Pearl pictured with her Uncle Peter Yench and her Nan Betty Wells on Remembrance Day in Cobar [Image supplied]According to Pearl a good volunteer is someone willing to give it a go.“A person who is willing to help. You don’t always have to be good at something, but if you are willing to help it makes a world of difference.“I love Cobar, it is such a great community as we all know each other, so when you see people doing things everyone jumps in to help and by doing it all together, everyone can enjoy themselves.“There is not a lot of things to do in Cobar, but volunteering brings something else to the table. Just having that opportunity to work with other people feels really good."The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate [Image centre for Volunteering]The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate urged people from across the region to show their support for their local finalists.“Volunteers help make communities stronger, healthier and more resilient. They’re worth their weight in gold and we need to let them know how proud we are of their efforts.”General Manager of Cobar Shire Council Peter Vlatko says Cobar is very proud of Pearl [Image Cobar Shire Council]General Manager of Cobar Shire Council Peter Vlatko said “For Cobar it’s a great example of a young person having a strong commitment to volunteer her time to help our community and it shows how important this type of passion still exists.“We are so proud that Pearl is representing herself and Cobar and wish her the very best of luck,” said GM Vlatko.Pearl will head to Sydney along with other Orana award winners, the National Association for Loss and Grief NALAG (Volunteer Team of the Year), who say they are thrilled to be recognised for this award.NALAG Team receiving their Orana area award are humbled and excited to be attending the State awards in December [Image NALAG] NALAG tirelessly volunteer across the western area, helping many people through programs such as the recent ‘Dry Run’ events to help navigate drought and tough times for western area residents and organisations. “Receiving the Kerry Frost (27 years’ service) Senior Volunteer Award and the NALAG Dubbo Team Award is more than a moment of celebration — it’s a powerful affirmation of who we are and what we stand for,” said NALAG CEO Trudy Hanson. “These awards reflect the enduring commitment of our volunteers and teams who have walked alongside thousands in grief, offering compassion, presence, and hope.“They recognise the professionalism, care, and collaboration that our teams bring to every interaction — whether in Dubbo, across NSW, or online.“These accolades elevate the visibility of grief support as essential community care. They help us advocate for the importance of connection, healing, and recognition in times of loss.“They invite us to keep growing, keep listening, and keep showing up for those who need us most,” said Ms Hanson.NALAG CEO Trudy Hanson [Image NALAG]Award winners will be announced across seven categories, including the inaugural NSW Emergency Volunteer of the Year, and the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year.The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are hosted by The Centre for Volunteering and supported by Principal Partner, the NSW Department of Communities and Justice.

Black Friday sales are right around the corner but online shoppers should be wary of sneaky scammers during the bargain frenzy. One wrong click and your bank account could be drained. One wrong purchase and your passwords could be leaked. One innocent-looking website sale could distribute all of your digital details. Online scams are scary and are not uncommon with over 159,000 unsuspecting Australians hit in their hip pocket this year.The National Anti-Scam Centre’s Scamwatch reports total losses of $259.5 million dollars. That is 16% more than last year.Knowledge is your best weapon and now is the time to sharpen your protections against online thieves. With the annual black Friday sales starting to pop up, Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe wants to remind shoppers to stay vigilant of suspicious deals. “Scammers love Black Friday sales too because they know shoppers are looking for bargains and they rely on creating urgency and pressure that can come with a busy shopping period,” she said. “We remind consumers to take their time, check the legitimacy of websites and its offers, and be cautious about sharing personal or financial information online. "A few simple checks before making a purchase can make all the difference in avoiding a scam and keeping your money safe.”Shopping scams are the hottest hoax in Australia this year.The ACCC has seen almost twenty thousand reports of shopping scams so far, and 9628 of these reports have resulted in a total loss of $8.6 million dollars.Individuals should be wary of other types of online scams [SOURCED: SERVICES AUSTRALIA].  The National Anti-Scam Centre is also seeing more people report financial loss among vulnerable communities. Reports show a 50% rise in first Nations people who were targeted through scams this year. There is also a 12% rise for people with a disability and 35% for those who speak English as a second language. Although spotting scams can be difficult, the ACCC says shoppers need to stay on the lookout this Black Friday. Shoppers are encouraged to double check the person or organisation is real to prevent being scammed. They should contact their bank immediately if they have lost money, shared digital details or believe they have been scammed. The Scamwatch website published resources for people to provide support to scammer targets, including red flag signs, conversation starters and the manipulation tactics often used by the conartists. “We’re grateful to everyone who reports scams to Scamwatch, even if they haven’t lost money," Mrs Lowe says. "Each report helps us build a clearer picture of scam activity and strengthens our work with other organisations to disrupt these criminal networks." Report scams here.

The Nyngan Hotel has taken out the National Best Draught Beer Quality award at the Australian Hotel Awards this week.It follows their state win a month ago and the small town of Nyngan are cheering.James and Emily Stanton, who purchased the run-down hotel and brought it back to life, said they are ecstatic about the win.“We’re absolutely thrilled,” said Mrs Stanton.“To win Australia’s Best Draught Beer Quality as a small country pub in Nyngan is truly incredible.“We poured everything we had into rebuilding this hotel, and to now be recognised on a national stage is something we are extremely proud of,” said Mrs Stanton.A stringent judging process took place with many criteria to be met.Mr and Mrs Stanton out the front of the renovated Nyngan Hotel. [Image Nyngan Hotel]“This award isn’t just about a good pour — the judging is intense,” said Mrs Stanton.“Judging was 50% assessment of back of house and cool room and 50% anonymous site inspection. We were assessed on:"Cellar & keg room cleanliness and management, beer line hygiene, tap functionality & correct gas systems, cool room standards & keg freshness, proper glass management and chemical use, In-glass temperature, clarity, aroma and taste, technique, knowledge and consistency across beer styles.Emily and James Stanton with their NSW State award which entitled them to compete for the National title. [Image The Nyngan Hotel]“It’s the whole operation — front and back of house — done properly, every single day."To win this as a small country pub on the edge of the Outback… there are no words. We’re proud, grateful and absolutely blown away,” said Mrs Stanton.Member for Barwon Roy Butler was thrilled for the team at The Nyngan.“Congratulations The Nyngan. So good to see you achieving and look forward to seeing you soon for a meal,” Mr Butler said. People took to the Internet in droves congratulating the team on their win.The Nyngan Hotel were excited with their Australian title win [Image Nyngan Hotel]“That is amazing,” wrote Jennifer Richmond. “Well done and well deserved.“So much work has gone into the renovation and operation of the pub, it’s a huge asset to Nyngan,” said Ms Richmond.The Stantons believe its a team effort backed by a supportive community.“Thank you to our team, our community, and everyone who believed in us from day one. This one’s for Nyngan,” said Mrs Stanton.

A 14-year-old boy was charged today (Friday 21 November) after vandalising classrooms and stealing from a Condobolin school earlier this month. Between 1.30 and 3.20am on Tuesday 11 November multiple classrooms were vandalised and several electronic devices were taken. Police established the crime scene when they were called to the location around 7.45 the same morning. Over an hour later, detectives found four laptops, four tablet devices along with four power cables on McDonell Street and Molong Street, Condobolin. The investigation was ongoing until yesterday.Police arrested a 14-year-old boy around 2pm, and he was charged with aggravated break and enter dwelling, and two counts of destroy or damage property. He was granted conditional bail to appear before a children’s court on Wednesday 4 February 2026. Police say further arrests are anticipated.  

A major enforcement operation took place in Nyngan on Wednesday 19 November, following investigation into allegations of illegal tobacco and vape sale. Bogan Shire Council joined forces with NSW Police Force following intelligence that a Pangee street business was supplying prohibited vapes and tobacco which resulted in a co-ordinated business compliance inspection at the premises. The inspection took place following a vehicle intercept by NSW Police where quantities of tobacco and nicotine-laced vape modules were found in a vehicle observed to have left the Pangee street premises.Police established the prohibited goods originated from said premises, which were being stored in the vehicle and sold to customers attending the business. Following the business compliance inspection, an Emergency Stop Use Order pursuant to the NSW Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 was issued to the business. The premises were sealed and a prohibition on the use of the premises has been established. Ross Earl Acting General Manager for Bogan Shire Council said it was good to be able to work with police for a successful outcome for the community. “Investigations are ongoing and Council is pleased to see the operation was successful,” said Mr Earl.“We really appreciate the support and cooperation from the police who were able to seize goods and put a stop to this operation in Nyngan,” he added.  A spokesperson for Bogan Shire Council said the Council remains dedicated to working alongside NSW Police and NSW Health to eliminate illegal tobacco and vape trading in the area. “The sale and distribution of prohibited tobacco and vape products poses a significant threat to public health, places a significant strain on local health resources and disadvantages legitimate local businesses,” they said. NSW Police were contacted for comment but said this was a Council matter. Council urges anyone with information about unlawful tobacco or vape sale to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. All reports are handled confidentially.

The Member for Barwon, Roy Butler, is introducing legislation into NSW Parliament to impose new conditions on land acquisitions for National Parks to address growing community concerns in western NSW.His move comes as Bourke mayor Lachlan Ford meets the responsible minister, NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe today (Friday 21 November), and a survey which showed overwhelming discontent on several issues which the Councillor said had cut the fabric and heart of his community.Bellenbar on the Warrego River in the Bourke Shire has 13,764 hectares destined to become a National Park.Brewarrina Shire loses 7,643 hectares for a new park.Councils claim a number of jobs will be lost in their shires. Money will leave their community and National Parks pay no rates to Council coffers. Councillors and pastoralists also argue that above market rates were paid for the properties, artificially inflating land values in the region.Cobar Shire Council mayor Jarod Marsden and his councillors have also vented their concern, joining other Western NSW Councils in a bid to stop more land buys of agricultural land.The 13,456 hectares of Cobar’s Iona is among the latest purchases.The three new National Parks add up to more 35,000 hectares to the national parks estate in New South Wales. These three acquisitions nearly double new additions for the 2024-25 financial year to a total of more than 73,000ha. The NSW national parks network now totals almost 7,774,000 ha.Iona, near Cobar. [IMAGE: NSW National Parks]Mr Butler has notified NSW Parliament of his intention to introduce the National Parks and Wildlife Amendment (Land Boundaries and Acquisitions) Bill 2025.  The Bill is a response to feedback from Mr Butlers’ survey of local views on National Parks. Before any land can be acquired for a National Park, the Bill would require a report detailing the economic impact and the environmental goals of the purchase. Local councils would be given the right to nominate a person to help prepare the report.  “Recent conversions of working properties into National Parks in western NSW don’t appear to have considered the local economic impact,” said Mr Butler. “They’ve made promises about increased tourism that never seem to bear fruit.” “It’s also often unclear exactly what is being protected by the new National Parks," Mr Butler said. “In fact, my recent survey showed that just one in five people had seen environmental or economic benefits from local National Parks. “My Bill would force consideration of the economic impacts and environmental goals of any proposed National Park purchase.“Five years after any acquisition, the Minister would also have to report to Parliament whether those goals had been achieved.” Mr Butler’s Bill would also require National Parks to pay rates to councils and share the costs of maintaining fences with neighbouring landholders. “My Bill addresses many of the concerns that locals have raised with the acquisition of working stations and the ongoing management of National Parks,” said Mr Butler.“Resolving these concerns is a win for locals and it’s also good for National Parks.”

Telstra says coming upgrades will bring Lightning Ridge up to speed, with work to improve the 4G tower starting on 28 November. The telco warns residents can expect mobile disruptions from Monday 8 December for around four days. Locals are hopeful the expected spotty service will not affect the town too much during this time. Telstra Regional General Manager Mike Marom says locals will see improvements to the current 4G service in and around Lightning Ridge.  The service updates are expected to help deliver faster downloads, smoother streaming and less congestion for customers. “We know how important mobile connectivity is for Australians, whether you’re in the city or the country," he says. "Adding extra 4G capacity to our mobile site in the area will help deliver faster downloads, smoother streaming and less congestion for customers." The upgrades will also set up the tower for future 5G developments, but there is no date for when that will be. Australia was introduced to 5G in 2019, making lightning Ridge late to the fast-internet party. Narrabri, Coonamble, Warren, Nyngan, Cobar and Trangie are already equipped with 5G service [IMAGE: SUPPLIED TELSTRA].Lightning Ridge Telstra customers will face disruptions in calls and messaging while the Woololoo Road station base in town is being upgraded. “While disruption is required while the upgrade is underway, we’ll only be switching off the site when we need to and will have it back online and working better than ever as quickly as possible," Mr Marrom says. Customers can continue to make calls and send texts during disruption to mobile services by switching on wi-fi calling. They say the option is available on most phones. Lightning Ridge businesses are being encouraged to have a backup plan, as technology may be affected during this time. But bowling club supervisor Elanor Beaumont says she would not mind the delays if it means the service is upgrading. Currently with Telstra, Ms Beaumont said it is the best mobile provider in town. "Hopefully it doesn’t affect town too much," she says. The Opal Cave Lightning Ridge is also with Telstra, but luckily worker Justine Colville-Buckley says the eftpos is connected with Optus and wifi, so the business will be able to operate under Telstra disruptions. As for her personal mobile connection, Ms Colville-Buckley is not too phased. "I guess I'll just have to read a book," she says. Both Ms Beaumont and Ms Colville-Buckley were surprised to hear about the Telstra upgrades, both saying the service in the area is already pretty good.

Today five teenagers faced court after they stole a car and fled from police, resulting in a short-lived chase between Narromine and Dubbo. Around 5.45pm yesterday Orana-Mid Western Police District officers were patrolling the Mitchell Highway in Narromine when they spotted a SUV allegedly driving dangerously. The chase started after the driver reportedly failed to pull over upon the police's request, and continued on the highway towards Dubbo. The police deployed road spikes at the Mitchell Highway and Rosedale Road intersection and the SUV came to a halt near Westview Road. The occupants of the vehicle attempted to flee the scene, but four teenagers, two girls aged 15, a 13-year-old girl and a boy aged 13, were arrested nearby. About an hour later at 6.40pm the police found the other occupant, a 16-year-old-boy, near Catherine Drive, around two kilometres away. The group of youths were taken to Dubbo Police Station, where the driver, a 15 year old girl, was charged with police pursuit without stopping, drive at speed, and drive conveyance taken without consent of owner. The rest were were charged for being carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner. The 13-year-old boy was also charged for possession of a knife in a public place. One of the 13-year-old-girls was granted conditional bail to appear at Children’s Court on Monday 12 January 2026. The others were refused bail to appear at Children’s Court today. Investigations heard the SUV was allegedly stolen from a Portland home on Wednesday.

While harvest is in full swing across the broadacre cropping areas of the Western Plains, the ongoing search for farm labour continues to be a problem.In a recent report, the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) said persistent worker shortages remain one of the largest constraints on agricultural productivity, stressing that a stable and skilled workforce underpins the viability of the entire sector.“Agriculture faces persistent and acute workforce pressures that must be addressed if the sector is to remain strong, viable and productive,” said Michael Pyers, NFF General Manager of Workplace Relations and Legal Affairs.Mr Pyers said farm businesses “consistently have trouble hiring for both skilled and unskilled roles,” and noted shortages are particularly severe in seasonal industries such as horticulture, where labour demand peaks sharply and unpredictably.”The latest report from NFF confirms the findings made by the McKell Institute in 2023 which said that in the following five years, regional NSW would head into an era of “acute skills and labour shortages,” with some areas at risk of becoming full-blown “skills deserts.”The NFF’s comments formed part of its assessment of the Jobs and Skills Roadmap for Regional Australia – Phase 1 Report, but while the Federation supports the vision of the roadmap, it argues the specific needs of agriculture must be embedded in Phase 2, calling out five key problem areas: persistent labour shortages, skills and training gaps, barriers to workforce participation, migration and visa complexity, and the need to improve the attractiveness of agricultural careers.NSW Farmers echoed these concerns in April 2025, calling for “common-sense workforce and regulatory reforms” to help agricultural businesses secure the labour they need.NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said agricultural operations depend on “a consistent and suitably skilled workforce,” and urged political leaders to act decisively.He highlighted the need for an expanded AgCAREERSTART program, greater support for graduate veterinarians in regional areas, and broader initiatives to train future farm communities.Mr Martin also pointed to liveability as a critical factor: investment in worker accommodation and regional infrastructure is essential for attracting and retaining staff.“Workplace regulations must support productivity, not inhibit it. Compliance processes need to be streamlined so farmers can focus on running their businesses efficiently,” he said.The seasonal nature of farm jobs such as shearing, harvest and fruit picking is an issue affecting obaining farm workers, due to the short term nature of the tasks.Mr Martin added that improvements to migration pathways, including streamlined visa processing and retaining specified work requirements for working holiday makers, were vital for filling roles not met by the domestic workforce.The NSW Government’s AgSkilled initiative aims to give more farmers, producers, and workers access to training that meets the needs of a fast-changing industry, from mastering on-farm technology to improving safety, sustainability, and productivity.In one year, the program delivered training to more than 2,300 participants across 188 regional locations. A quarter of all participants were under 25 and a quarter were women, indicating early success in drawing new entrants into the sector.The program runs until mid-2026.In Narrabri, Bellevue Pastoral Co have staff who have undertaken AgSkilled-funded training across first aid, truck licensing and chemical use."AgSkilled has been a valuable investment in our people and me.""The training has helped improve safety, build capability, and support career development across our team,” Elizabeth Smart from Bellevue Pastoral Co said."We're seeing the benefits of AgSkilled not just on our properties but in the broader community. It supports productivity and gives our workers confidence and expertise."Taken together, the McKell analysis, NFF warnings, NSW Farmers’ calls and the Government’s AgSkilled investment show a sector trying to fight the same battle from multiple fronts: attracting workers, keeping them, and equipping them with the skills regional NSW agriculture desperately needs.But as industry groups claim, there is a lot more to be done.“These shortages are dragging down productivity rates, increasing costs for farm businesses, and ultimately, hampering food supply chains,” Mr Pyers said.

Incidents over two consecutive nights have Walgett police warning residents to take extra care in securing homes and premises.The series of reported break and enters are alleged to involve a group of teenagers.A 14 year old boy has been charged after attempting to break into a Walgett home on Monday night 17 November. A group of four youths snuck around the back of a Montkeila Street home just after 8pm in attempt to break into the house. Allegedly armed with screwdrivers, the group broke into the back screen door, but fled the scene after failing to break into a secondary door. A seventy year old woman was home during the attempted crime but was uninjured. Not long after, around 9.40pm Central North Police District officers were called to a home on George Sands Way, where they arrested a 14 year old boy. He attended court yesterday, Tuesday 18 November, where he was charged for entering prescribed premises of any person without lawful excuse, enter building/land with intent to commit indictable offence, and breaching bail. He was refused bail to attend a children's court on Thursday, where he was granted conditional bail to appear at a children’s court on Thursday 18 December 2025. Police say the investigation is ongoing.Thieves have also attempted to break into on homes in Euroka, Neilly and Namoi Streets in Walgett. The incidents occurred between 10.30pm on Tuesday 18 November and 4am Wednesday 19 November.Two children's bikes and a scooter were stolen from the front yard of the Euroka Street home.Police say no entry was gained to the homes and there are no reports of any injuries.They would like to speak to two teenage boys wearing long pants and hoodies.One of the boys was reportedly in possession of a knife and the other a machete.Residents are reminded to secure their homes and premises.As investigations continue, police are urging anyone with information about the incident or anyone in the area at the time with available dashcam or mobile phone footage to contact Walgett Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333000.

Bourke mayor Lachlan Ford will meet NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe in Sydney on Friday over his Council’s concerns over the buy-ups of large agricultural land for new NSW National Parks.The mayor has been vocal on the issue, backed by his councillors who said they were concerned about the effects on the Shire.Mr Ford will be seeking clarity and co-operation from the Minister in recognising and acting on local impacts.At a Bourke Shire Council meeting on Monday 17 November, Mayor Ford said he gained a meeting with the Minister after a chat with a DCEEW (Department of Climate, Energy, Environment and Water executive taking a phone call from the Ministers office not long after his initial meeting with the Department. ‘’Its lost opportunities and hurting our social fabric with people leaving the shire because of the loss of jobs and the cumulative effect of that on our community. ‘’ Mayor Ford said. He has spoken with an executive at the Department of Climate, Energy, Environment in Sydney, telling fellow councillors at their meeting that he had received verbal assurance that ‘’No further purchases of land will be made in the Bourke Shire for new National Parks.’’The mayor was congratulated by his councillors but he admitted there was no clarity around national parks land purchases in other areas.The Bourke mayor will be seeking further assurances from the government, including a commitment to fencing to stop feral animals invading nearby landholders.Bellenbar Station near Bourke was one of the recent purchases by the NSW Government.Recent major land purchases in Bourke and Cobar shares has also worried state Member for Barwon Roy Butler who instigated a survey to capture local views.The survey had 242 responses with most respondents saying they were deeply concerned about the spread of national parks and the flow-on impacts to their communities.Mr Butler said the communities' biggest concerns around turning pastoral stations into National Parks are: 1) Losing a pastoral business that helps the local economy2) High purchase prices affecting land values and stopping new farmers from entering the industry3) Feral animals getting out of control.Respondents were less concerned about poor fencing or the loss of access to roads or fire trails.A majority support allowing conservation hunting in western National Parks to control feral animals, with just one in four supporting better fencing.Bourke's mayor said councils everywhere were concerned about the effects of buy ups of land for new parks. He said country mayors across the state are coming on board with their concerns .On the North Coast jobs are being lost over the creation of the Great Koala Park over 475,00 hectares between Kempsey and Grafton. The Barwon MP's survey indicated that the majority of respondents wanted the purchase of agricultural land for new Parks, to cease. "When asked what would make them more supportive of Western National Parks, more than 4 in 10 said stopping purchases above market value, with another 22% supporting clearer rules for converting pastoral stations to parks," Mr Butler said.